A Unique Wine Tasting in St. Helena: The Line Up Tasting Experience
If you’re seeking a different sort of wine tasting experience in Napa’s renowned wine country, the Line Up Tasting at The Prisoner Wine Company in St. Helena might just be what you’re looking for. For $60 per person, you get about an hour at a stylish, dark, and inviting space that feels more like a cosmopolitan oasis than a typical tasting room. Led by knowledgeable staff, this private experience focuses on bold, approachable wines that challenge the usual expectations, forging paths less traveled in Napa.
What we love about this experience is how it emphasizes interesting varietals and creative blends—you won’t find the standard lineup here. The intimate setting and dedicated guide make for a personalized, engaging journey into wine’s more thought-provoking side. Plus, the stunning ambiance of the space leaves a lasting impression, making the visit more memorable than a hurried tasting at a busy winery.
One potential consideration, however, is the duration—at about 45 to 60 minutes, it’s a quick taste. If you’re craving a full afternoon of wine touring, this might feel brief. But if you’re after a focused, high-quality intro to exceptional wines, this short session packs a punch.
This tour is perfect for travelers who appreciate quality over quantity, enjoy discovering new varietals, or seek a more exclusive and relaxed atmosphere. It’s especially suited for those who want a personalized experience and value knowledgeable hosts sharing stories behind each pour.
- Key Points
- The Experience in Detail
- Location and Atmosphere
- The Tasting Itinerary
- What Makes This Stand Out?
- Authenticity and Authentic Experiences
- The Reviews from Fellow Travelers
- Practical Details: What You Need to Know
- Booking and Pricing
- Duration and Meeting Point
- Cancellation Policy
- Accessibility and Other Notes
- Who Will Love This Tour?
- The Sum Up
- FAQ
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Key Points

- Exclusive Setting: Stylish, dark interior that’s unlike any other in Napa.
- Focused on Creativity: Emphasis on blending interesting varietals for approachable yet thought-provoking wines.
- Private Experience: Only your group participates, adding intimacy and personalized attention.
- Knowledgeable Guides: Guides share insights into wine, labels, and history, enriching the tasting.
- High Value: For $60, you sample four bold wines in about an hour, making it an efficient yet impactful experience.
- Well-Reviewed: Consistently rated 5 stars for quality, knowledge, and ambiance.
The Experience in Detail

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Location and Atmosphere
The meeting point at The Prisoner Wine Company in St. Helena is just the start of what feels like stepping into a modern art piece. Entering the space, you’re greeted by a dark, sleek interior that feels chic without pretension. It’s a setting that immediately sets a cosmopolitan tone, perfect for those who love a bit of style with their wine.
This space’s design encourages relaxation and focus, allowing you to truly savor each sip. The stylish ambiance is one of the standout features—an environment that feels both intimate and exciting, avoiding the sometimes generic feel of larger wineries.
The Tasting Itinerary
Your guided session lasts roughly 45 to 60 minutes. You’ll be seated comfortably as your host introduces four of the winery’s bold, memorable wines. These wines are carefully curated to showcase approachable blends and interesting varietals—a shift from the more traditional Napa offerings.
While the exact wines may vary, reviews suggest that the focus is on creativity in winemaking, blending different grapes to produce wines that are both intriguing and accessible. The sommelier or host shares stories about the labels and history, making the tasting both educational and personal.
What Makes This Stand Out?
Most visitors appreciate the personalized attention since it’s a private tour, meaning your group can ask questions freely and enjoy the experience at your own pace. Roberto, the assistant mentioned in reviews, is praised for his excellent service and deep knowledge.
Another aspect worth noting is the quality of the wines. Reviewers mention “impeccable” service and “high-quality” wines, which justifies the $60 price tag when considering the overall value and uniqueness of the experience.
Authenticity and Authentic Experiences
Unlike larger, more commercial tasting rooms, here you’ll find a more authentic vibe—focused on storytelling and craftsmanship. Guests have enjoyed learning about the labels and the women behind Domaine Curry, adding a layer of storytelling that enhances the tasting.
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The Reviews from Fellow Travelers
One reviewer describes it as a “really interesting experience,” noting the knowledgeable sommelier and the chance to try five wines during their visit, which included both The Prisoner and Domaine Curry tastings. They appreciated the history shared, making each sip more meaningful.
Another reviewer emphasizes the stunning scenery, impeccable service, and high-quality wines. They mention that Roberto, the assistant, was excellent, and that it was a great value for the cost.
Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Booking and Pricing
This experience is $60 per person, and most travelers book about 24 days in advance, so plan accordingly. It’s a private tour, meaning only your group participates, which enhances the intimacy and personalized feel.
Duration and Meeting Point
The tasting lasts around an hour, starting at The Prisoner Wine Company located at 1178 Galleron Rd, St. Helena. The activity ends back at the same spot, making logistics simple.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the appointment, which is convenient if your plans change unexpectedly.
Accessibility and Other Notes
Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate, making it accessible for many visitors.
Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts who appreciate artful blends and creative winemaking. It suits those who prefer intimate, quiet settings over crowded tasting rooms. If you’re interested in learning about wine labels, history, and craftsmanship, this tour offers plenty of storytelling.
It’s also well-suited for travelers looking for a high-quality, value-focused tasting in a stylish environment. If you’re short on time but want a meaningful introduction to Napa’s wine scene, this is a solid choice.
The Sum Up

The Line Up Tasting at The Prisoner Wine Company in St. Helena offers a focused, stylish, and authentic wine experience that celebrates bold and approachable wines. It’s a perfect fit for those who want to escape the crowds and discover wines with character. The private setting, combined with knowledgeable guides and high-quality wines, makes it a worthwhile investment for any wine lover visiting Napa Valley.
While it’s a brief experience—lasting just under an hour—it delivers value through quality, storytelling, and ambiance. Whether you’re a dedicated wine connoisseur or just someone looking for a distinctive tasting adventure, this tour provides a memorable and meaningful taste of Napa’s creative spirit.
FAQ

How much does the tour cost?
The experience is priced at $60 per person, which includes a guided tasting of four wines in a stylish, intimate setting.
How long is the tasting?
The tasting lasts approximately 45 to 60 minutes, making it an efficient way to sample high-quality wines without spending hours.
Where does the tour start?
It begins at The Prisoner Wine Company located at 1178 Galleron Rd, St. Helena. The activity ends back there as well.
Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group participates, providing a more personalized experience.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.
Is the experience suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s ideal for those who enjoy quality wine, storytelling, and a stylish atmosphere.
What makes this experience special?
It’s the combination of a stylish environment, creative wine selection, and knowledgeable hosts that make it stand out. Guests often comment on the impeccable quality and informative storytelling.
If you’re after a bit of Napa with a stylish twist, the Line Up Tasting at The Prisoner Wine Company offers a focused, high-quality, and authentic experience that’s worth adding to your itinerary.
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